What do you do if you're unsure which factors to consider when choosing a Direct Sales internship?

Questions that you should certainly ask yourself: - How high is employee attrition in the company, especially in sales? - How is the performance of seniors developing? - What leadership culture does the sales leader have? The best leader I ever had in sales once said, I have only won when you earn more than me.

In my career, I've found that understanding the company culture is crucial. Look for an organization that aligns with your values and work style. A positive and supportive work environment can greatly enhance your internship experience, fostering growth and job satisfaction. I always reach out to current or past interns to get a sense of the company's culture and how it treats its employees, ensuring it’s a place where I can thrive.

The following factors are important with regard to the internship in a company: - What is the company's budget for staff training, i.e. how much do you receive for further training? - Which trainers are used? Only internal or also external? - Are new best practices developed on the basis of current case studies or do they stick to the tried and tested? The good companies are dynamic and can adapt quickly to changing market situations and offer their employees opportunities accordingly.

Comprehensive training is essential in direct sales to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Evaluate the training programs offered by the company. I have always valued companies that invest in their interns through structured training sessions, workshops, and continuous learning opportunities. This kind of support has been instrumental in my professional development.

You have little control over whether your mentor is invested in you, but you have complete control over whether you pursue engagement. While this person is likely busy all day every day, they have made the commitment to be a mentor. So don't be shy. Let them know that you want the benefit of their time, experience & expertise. Be the squeaky wheel. Get the grease.

Mentoring programs in sales are most effective when following the philosophy of full cycle sales. In this way, you can connect new starters with a senior and pass on their experience in order to build up and expand their knowledge. The learning curve is particularly steep and therefore a new starter performs very quickly. The seniors can thus develop leadership qualities.

Mentorship can be a game-changer in your professional development. Seek internships that provide access to experienced mentors who can offer guidance, support, and valuable industry insights. From my experience, a good mentor has helped me navigate challenges, develop my skills, and advance my career significantly. This support system is invaluable.

I can't say it any more, especially in sales must be open at the top. It can't be that you demand the extra mile from your employees but don't want to pay the extra. Those who perform above average should also earn above average.

Reflect on additional factors such as the company's market reputation, the industry it operates in, and the geographical location of the internship. These elements can influence your overall experience and the networking opportunities available to you. Personally, I have always found that considering these broader aspects helps in making a well-rounded decision.